Perthshire expects a multi-million- pound spin-off if Dundee’s ambitious bid to become City of Culture 2017 is successful.
Perth and Kinross Council leader Ian Miller said he would be delighted if its neighbour captures the prestigious title not least because it would share some of the £80 million economic boost it would create.
“They have our whole-hearted support,” said Mr Miller. “Obviously it would benefit the whole of Tayside, not just Dundee there would be spin-offs for Perth, Angus and Fife.”
“These are aspirations which will have reach and impact well beyond Dundee city, and in which we must and should all have a stake.”
Mr Miller revealed that he had written a letter of support for the application to his counterpart in Dundee, Ken Guild. He said he was happy to reciprocate by supporting the bid as Dundee had backed Perth’s successful quest for city status.
“They were hugely helpful when the city bid went in and supported us in a number of ways. This is an opportunity to return the favour,” said Mr Miller.
The bid document from Dundee was sent on Monday. It is estimated that if the city is successful, the title would not only generate £80 million but would create around 1,000 jobs.
Dundee is on the shortlist and is competing against Hull, Leicester and Swansea Bay.